Everyone who knows me is aware that I'm obsessed with Neil Gaiman, but Garth Nix is very close behind these days. I'm starting Grim Tuesday (the seconEveryone who knows me is aware that I'm obsessed with Neil Gaiman, but Garth Nix is very close behind these days. I'm starting Grim Tuesday (the second book in this Keys of the Kingdom series) now, and hope that the rest of the series is as good as this first installment. I've heard people compare this series to Harry Potter, but it's very, very different. A Harry Potter fan might not necessarily cross over and become a Garth Nix fan, but there is a similarity in that this series has plenty of appeal and adventure for both male and female readers. The main character isn't as immediately compelling as Harry, but as Arthur has to cope with the many responsibilities that befall him, he develops more pluck and charisma. In the end, I have to admit that I'm not sure that I love Arthur, so much as the world surrounding him, but what a world it is... Given the circumstances, I'm okay with the fact that the hero takes a backseat to the bigger story. ...more

As much as it saddens me to say this, I can't give this book as good a rating as I'd like. If it were possible to give half stars, it's really a 2 1/2As much as it saddens me to say this, I can't give this book as good a rating as I'd like. If it were possible to give half stars, it's really a 2 1/2 star book, and it's a shame because it started off brilliantly. Miles, the protagonist, is hiding in a barrel with a stuffed bear named Tangerine and spying on a mysterious circus. The creepy circus element had so much potential, because isn't everyone just a little bit creeped out by clowns anyway? Throw that in with the orphan boy-makes-good plot line and it has at least the hint of a good story to come, but this book has too many spectacles going in too many rings. By the end of the book we've enountered lost angels, a phantom (talking) tiger, and uncovered a convoluted brainwashing scheme, not to mention a strange almost post-Apocalyptic gang of hoodlums that sound like the younger siblings of the crazy people from the Mad Max movies. It almost feels like the author felt compelled to make the book long in hopes that kids might take that into consideration along with the fanciful, colorful jacket and mistake it for a fantastical tale along the lines of a Funke or Rowling creation. The difference is, Rowling and Funke's plot twists rarely feel so gratuitous. In the end, only a forced deus ex machina moment is able to bring all of the bizarre events to something resembling a resolution, and we never do really figure out what the real story is with the tiger. There is something about the boy and his bear that moved me, but I'm afraid there's too much confusion to make it a good bedtime read-aloud (as a serial-type tale) for younger kids, and I think like older kids would be old enough to feel there's not enough payoff for the effort. It seems this is the first book of a series and I can only hope that the next installments improve on what has been begun here....more

Someone I know claimed this no longer has value, that she would never recommend it because it's saccharine, has a religious agenda, and sends a bad meSomeone I know claimed this no longer has value, that she would never recommend it because it's saccharine, has a religious agenda, and sends a bad message to girls that they should all be little domestic homebodies. I say she's wrong on all counts. This is high on my reread list along with Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, and a Tree Grows in Brooklyn--you could say that I'm pretty familiar with it.

Let's see--there's a heroine who not only writes, but is proud of the fact and makes a profit from it in a time that this was somewhat out-of-the-ordinary. Reading this, and especially knowing later that the main character is (for all practical purposes) Alcott herself, inspired me to write myself, and I haven't forgotten the writing lessons even today: don't let money cloud your vision, write for yourself first, take criticism, write what you know. Still wise even today. Also in this book, we see the perspective of a family coping with the financial and emotional strain of having a loved one away at war, something that is unfortunately all too relatable today. There's also (extraordinary in those times, common in ours)a platonic, though not uncomplicated, friendship between a man and a woman that is sort of a different kind of love story in a way and a powerful one at that. We see people getting married, but marriage is never portrayed as The Answer to Everything--many of the matches involve sacrifice and struggling. The girls, though good at heart, aren't a picture-perfect family of saints. They're flawed and human. The paragon Beth would seem the exception, but the message with her is more about how even the quietest among us can make an impact on the world--not parading her isolated life as an example, only her kindness.

I won't lie. Someone dies, there's a war and a father's away--so yes, God is mentioned: I think there's a few Pilgrim's Progress references in passing and there's some talk of faith at moments when the characters most need it. To contemporary readers, this may seem like a lot, but heavy-handed it is not. It was probably somewhat unusual for its time. The thought that everyone's relationship and perception of God could greatly vary, and that to be true to your religion was entirely non judgmental and meant being kind to other people and trying to make yourself better, not other people? The thought that each person must be allowed to deal with these feelings in their own time in their own way? Wacky stuff.

I admit it seems like a tough sell to today's kids, packaged in somewhat formal sounding-language, and bearing every indication of being literary broccoli, but this book is a classic for a reason. It might be a tough sell, but I don't think we should give up on trying to think of ways to do it anyway. What's inside still counts. Don't write it off....more

The series is interesting enough that even one of the weaker installments is still pretty decent, but I would definitely rate this as one of the weakeThe series is interesting enough that even one of the weaker installments is still pretty decent, but I would definitely rate this as one of the weaker ones. Quite a bit of the momentum that was built in the first three books stalls a bit in Sir Thursday and Lady Friday with the main characters stumping through less scenic parts of the House to confront less dynamic Trustees. Also, due to Arthur's growing maturity and strength as the Rightful Heir, his trusty sidekicks (Leaf, Suzy, and now Fred) begin to seem a little superfluous. There is every hope, however, that more (and more satisfying) adventures and conflicts await with Arthur's big confrontation with Superior Saturday, and that will keep many readers going. ...more

I was an undiscriminating librarian (and reader) and picked up this book for its fantastic cover without giving more than a cursory glance to the descI was an undiscriminating librarian (and reader) and picked up this book for its fantastic cover without giving more than a cursory glance to the description in the jacket. In this case though, the contents were actually even more promising as the cover hinted. There's a treasure hunt, espionage, magic, and plenty of danger. There's plenty of adventure and intrigue to pull boys in as well as girls, and a little bit of humor along the way. As much as I love the cover, I'm not even sure it does the book full justice. The sparkly little scene on front is like spun sugar to the rollicking explosion of flavor (sweet and sour and in just the right amounts) inside. ...more

This book is reminiscent of the best pirate adventures of the past, but ups the ante by setting half of the tale in the air, rather than the seas, andThis book is reminiscent of the best pirate adventures of the past, but ups the ante by setting half of the tale in the air, rather than the seas, and by taking time with characterizations, rather than creating stock Baddies.There is admittedly an odd subplot with mysterious creatures which is...interesting enough, but really I found myself caught up the most with the "high seas" (or perhaps in this case, high over the seas) drama. Even the technical parts about the various parts of the airship, details about the mechanisms, and the behind-the-scenes peek into crew life on the fictional and fantastic Aurora were fascinating to me. The pirate crew are a mixture of elegant and rough unsavory characters that feel particularly true-to-life from what I've read on the subject. These villains are neither caricatures nor buffoons, and they evoke a sense of danger that's almost palpable. Reluctant readers might be thrown by the length and the formality in the speech of the characters who are after all, from another time. Still, I think a case could be made for this as a sort of crossover for a boy who reads mainly nonfiction and is interested in nautical subjects, aviation, or real life pirates. And who doesn't love that? Many girls will find plenty of things to hold their interest as well between the adventure and the smart, strong-minded, and brave Kate, who befriends the protagonist and leaves such a strong impression on the reader that she really comes close to stealing the show at times....more

Cornelia Funke is an amazing author and the mastermind behind Inkheart but you would never know it from this. While I am very much in favor of her reaCornelia Funke is an amazing author and the mastermind behind Inkheart but you would never know it from this. While I am very much in favor of her reaching out to a younger set of readers, I feel that she should give her new audience more credit for the sort of content that they want and are ready for. All of the beautiful dark notes that are interwoven in her books for older readers are gone without a trace in this tale of a spunky girl who intends to be a knight. There are a smattering of things I could nitpick about here, but the chief problem of the book really lies in the fact that it seems untroubled from any real tension, and therefore is not the action-packed adventurous romp that you might expect. Igraine's family is somewhat amused, but altogether very supportive of her unconventional career plans, she and her older brother get along remarkably well overall, everyone seems affable enough about the unfortunate spell mishap that transforms her parents, and due to the host of enchantments on their castle, one never really feels that it and the magic books are ever really that much in danger during the "siege" by the villain Osmund. The one real mystery of the book involving the backstory of the Sorrowful Knight is not particularly all that satisfying when it is eventually revealed. An overall fluffy read. Girls who want a stronger dose of adventure and who wouldn't mind seeing their heroines really scrap it up a bit should probably turn elsewhere....more

I have to disagree with one of the other reviewers. I do feel that Wolff can sometimes be a little too caught up with her own cleverness, but I do feeI have to disagree with one of the other reviewers. I do feel that Wolff can sometimes be a little too caught up with her own cleverness, but I do feel that she can really channel some of her young characters, and I definitely felt like the voices in this particular book felt natural and authentic. The book tells about a long-running rivalry between two girls' softball teams and a terrible accident that ensues one year. This happens after tensions mount after a Japanese girl, Aki (who recently returned with her family from a camp for Japanese-Americans)joins one team and Shazam, a poor, troubled girl whose father was killed in Pearl Harbor joins the other. The story unfolds gradually through the team members' testimonials about the events that year, which is a technique that effectively helps to heighten the tension and build the suspense as you wait for the inevitable collison of worlds that is slated to take place, although some of the girls' voices could have been differentiated a bit more. The girls love and aptitude for the game comes off as genuine, spirited, and natural, and so this really makes a positive sports story with a good message for young girls. In addition, Aki's story is moving and provides an important teaching moment along with the issues dealing with guilt and complicity, truth, and forviveness. It may not be Wolff's best book, but it is quite effective, and the characters of Aki and Shazam are memorable ones....more

Good enough that I book-talked it within a week to my 5-8 (5th-8th grade) club within a week after I read it. The subject is rather unusual. An AmericGood enough that I book-talked it within a week to my 5-8 (5th-8th grade) club within a week after I read it. The subject is rather unusual. An American girl, Emily, and her doctor parents live in Sumatra. Her parents are always working and she has been enlisted, like it or not, as a sort of assistant at the medical facility, and has been forced to grow up somewhat fast because of this. Her parents really treat her more like an orderly than a daughter. After an especially bad day when a patient dies and she feels to blame, Emily decides to run away to go visit her easy-going uncle and get a break from everything. While she's on the ferry however, there's a terrible accident. The ferry capsizes and in the chaos and panic, Emily ends up without a life vest. A good portion of the book is her trying to survive in open water, with no sight of land or sign of rescuers, trying to stay alive and trying to help another young survivor she encounters. I think you can't help but feel an ambivalence with the main character in the beginning, but she is very compelling, and surprisingly (considering the fact that she's just marooned out there)the book really is a page-turner. The biggest clincher for tweens though, may be the fact that the author was inspired by a true story where a young woman survived in the water for 16 hours after a similar accident---at least this is what really did it for my group. ...more

Sure to entertain baseball fans and fans of The Candy Shop War. Since both are applicable in my case, I found this irresistable. The Sluggers are a faSure to entertain baseball fans and fans of The Candy Shop War. Since both are applicable in my case, I found this irresistable. The Sluggers are a fantastically down-on-their-luck (and possibly cursed) baseball team much like the Red Sox were until recently. Still, in spite of their grumbling, the residents of the town remain loyal and hopeful in the same desperate, devoted way that Chicagoans are all too familiar with. The biggest fan of all is Danny Gurkin, who has a superstition and ritual attached to nearly everything related to game day, including the two hot dogs from the title. To anyone other than a fanatical baseball fan, this might seem strange--but to Danny's family and friends, it's what needs to be done. A sudden reversal that may or may not have to do with the ball club's mysterious deceased owner gets Danny in hot water with his friends, celebrated by the community at large, and lands the Sluggers in the playoffs. Will the luck hold, though---and if the Sluggers do win it all, what might be the cost? Does any of this have to do with the shortstop that disappeared just before the curse? All of these questions are answered in this humorous story of luck, loyalty, and baseball. Although the characters could be a little more nuanced, the plot is a page-turner, and people who know a little something about baseball will deeply appreciate the detail taken with the game scenes and the affectionate jabs at superstition and the unmatched obsession of the true fan....more

I might have given this a "three" rating, but it rates a five for concept. The main character battles for a place on the (all male) school hockey teamI might have given this a "three" rating, but it rates a five for concept. The main character battles for a place on the (all male) school hockey team and contends with tension that has cropped up in her friendship with boy. Unlike so many books for this audience, the tension turns out to have nothing to do with "special feelings" that have cropped up between the two. It's refreshing to see a very contemporary and realistic picture of a male-female friendship, and just a little bit satisfying to read about a girl making her mark in a rough game that even today (even in spite of Manon Rheaume) is still often associated with being a boy's world. ...more

Don't let the staid cover fool you for a minute. Ben Franklin had the kind of life that can't help but be fascinating on paper anyway, but the authorDon't let the staid cover fool you for a minute. Ben Franklin had the kind of life that can't help but be fascinating on paper anyway, but the author uses a really creative format here and presents his life in the style of articles such as would appear in publications that Franklin himself would put out. Though the book is crammed with material with primary sources the man and his exploits lend themselves to a slight gossipiness at times. This is juicy stuff, and the author doesn't let Franklin off the hook by presenting him in a grade school history play sort of way either. There is absolutely no hesitation to include reports and comments about him that present him in a less-than-flattering light, his troubled marriage is discussed, his affairs, his feud with his son and with John and Abigail Adams. In other words, we see him warts and all, and ultimately this creates a much more intimate portrait that will ultimately make the man come alive for young readers far more than the sort of glossed-over tributes that everyone used to loathe to have to read. It's good to see that juvenile nonfiction these days is striving for more balance and realism because kids are too savvy to buy anything else, and frankly, don't they deserve that, anyway?

If there were a rating for sheer coolness factor, this book would score off the charts, but do I approve of coolness for coolness's sake? Apparently iIf there were a rating for sheer coolness factor, this book would score off the charts, but do I approve of coolness for coolness's sake? Apparently in this case, I do. Hugo Cabret is orphaned, broke, and living a secret life behind the walls of a train station as he tries to piece together the story of a mysterious invention that his late father discovered and became obsessed with before his death. Along the way he runs afoul of the law and a crochety old man with a mysterious past who may be a magician or something else entirely. The book is well over 500 pages long and therefore is not easily portable, but it's an astoundingly fast read, and any kid who balks should be shown that A) about half the book consists of sketchbook-style full page illustrations and B) there are many pages that only have a line or two of type on them. It's an interesting format, and one that is pivotal in one of the plot twists, and often works to heighten already building suspense. The book is a sort of homage to old school cinema, the art of the first movies and of French filmmaker Georges Méliès in particular (although explaining why would give it away) and captures the feel of that world so well and introduces a level of sophistication and allure that I think that YAs as well as grown-up film buffs could easily find a lot to love in this book as well. All this being said, there are some flaws. There is a minor character that really exists for no other reason than for the author to put his friend's name in the book, but makes prominent enough appearances towards the beginning that it initially leads you to think otherwise. There are very grave misunderstandings that cause a lot of danger and trouble to Hugo could have been cleared up quickly and easily with a few words, but he chooses to keep silent for no apparent reason other than to allow the author to spin out the melodrama further. It seems like a bit of a cheap trick, and I suppose it is, but naturally it's effective. There are at least three different chase scenes, a lot of risk and mystery, and a good deal of suspense running throughout. If ever there was a way to do the unthinkable and connect young boys with reading, classic cinema, and art all at once---this is it, and I can't help myself; I think that's pretty darn...cool....more

Another reviewer commented to the effect of, "either you like Pinkwater or you don't" and I'm thinking that my reaction to this book must mean I probaAnother reviewer commented to the effect of, "either you like Pinkwater or you don't" and I'm thinking that my reaction to this book must mean I probably don't. The title is promising, but although the book has moments of good drama, it doesn't sustain itself. The pacing is awfully uneven. Rather than chugging along like the Super Chief, it stalls and jerks along similar to the Blue Line at its worst.Other than the airplane scene, one never really feels like Neddie is in very much peril at all, and the supposed threat to civilization is much too muddled to be really threatening. The book can't seem to decide whether it wants to be a nostalgic Route 66 travel brochure, a mystery, or an extended folk tale and none of the parts seem to fit together very well. Of the three functions, it does the best job as a travel brochure, if only because it is so thorough in incorporating facts. I noticed a few reviewers called this a YA book but I think the main characters are too young, the adventure not exciting enough, and a bit too much innocence in the whole thing overall for YAs to be much interested in this at all. Unfortunately, all of the blatant fact dumping throughout Neddie's journey might rouse the suspicions of younger readers who might feel like their social studies teacher is trying to sneak a lesson into the book. In other words, the audience for this book is anyone's guess. From what I've read this is pretty typical Pinkwater quirk here, so if you've read or recommended one of his other books and had a favorable response, maybe this would be safe, but anyone else--proceed with caution....more

This book may ring a bell because of the laughable controversy stirred up over the use of the word "scrotum" in a blink-and-you'll-miss it reference aThis book may ring a bell because of the laughable controversy stirred up over the use of the word "scrotum" in a blink-and-you'll-miss it reference about a snake biting someone's pet dog. Ironically, the author probably chose the clinical term on purpose to avoid trouble, since the significantly rough-around-the-edges character who tells the story would almost certainly phrase it quite differently had he been a flesh and blood figure, but what can you do? As silly as this is, I feel like I have to get that out of the way however, because in reality, while the "scrotum" issue is ridiculous, there are a fair share of legitimate problems with this book (Newbery Award notwithstanding). A little girl who searches (as a classmate of mine eloquently phrased it) for "something bigger than herself" in the somewhat barren world of Flat Pan seems like plot gold, but a good idea executed this ineffectively is still a problem. With the exception of Lucky, the characterizations lack depth. The plot is contrived and liberally glazed with sentimentality. And for a plot so blatantly convenient--the conveniences could at least be a smidge more believable. Does it make sense for a person to open a cafe successfully in a town where everyone receives government-supplied canned goods because no one can afford groceries? Is it remotely believable for the very savvy, well-prepared, and survival-minded Lucky to think for a second that the "perfect" time to implement a plan to run away is in the middle of a well-publicized and dangerous sand storm? Does it make sense for the author to take a heroine who has been enormously likeable and sympathetic through 75% of the book and (with just a few strokes) turn her into an unrepentant mean-tempered brat at the very end? And yet all of this comes to pass. There are Newbery Award books I don't like as much as others, but usually I can at least spot the appeal. This one leaves me in the dark, though. ...more

The trouble (or beauty, depending on your perspective) of this book is that Zappa gets so gleefully caught up in the details of his monsters that everThe trouble (or beauty, depending on your perspective) of this book is that Zappa gets so gleefully caught up in the details of his monsters that everything else--a coherent plot, good character development, etc. takes a backseat. What this means is that the reader finds themselves wanting to flip forward a few pages to the next Monsternomicon "page" for the next creature profile and skip past all that stuff involving annoying people running around to no purpose. The squirrely plot relies far too much on bloated passages of expository fact-dumping to explain the twists. The main characters, the sister and brother duo of Max and Minerva, aren't all that compelling. Of the two, only Max is at least assigned a few quirks and personality, but nfortunately, it's Minerva who has the role of chief storyteller. Considering the nature of the weaknesses, but the strength of the undeniably cool photo-like illustrations (in several places the "blood" spatters look almost indistinguishable from the real thing)and the wonderful detail in the monster profiles, this would probably be wonderful as a field guide but perhaps the publisher felt that if that were the case the similarities between this the Spiderwick series and Candlewick Press's fanciful book/kit "ologies" would be too marked. Unfortunately, judging from the cliffhanger ending, a follow-up to the story must be in the works. If Zappa would only give as much attention to his plot and human characters as he does his monsters, there would be hope for this yet. Failing that, writing the sequel from Max's perspective might give this already boy-friendly book just the boost it would need, but it looks like readers will just have to wait and see. ...more

To sum this up as an American Gods for the younger set would be a little too easy, but there is definitely an element of that in this mythology-goes-mTo sum this up as an American Gods for the younger set would be a little too easy, but there is definitely an element of that in this mythology-goes-modern novel. Percy (Perseus) Jackson feels like a bit of a screw-up in life, but when he vaporizes his math teacher with a pen during a field trip, he figures out pretty quickly there must be something more going on. It is revealed to him that he has Olympian ancestry and whether he likes it or not, is inextricably stuck in the middle of one of the biggest family squabbles of all time, with Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, and company scrapping, manipulating, and generally wreaking havoc--a mess that may well end up costing Percy his own life. Though the pace takes a little while to kick into high gear, once it does, it speeds along with traps, betrayals, and plot twists aplenty. For kids who like or can recall any Greek and Roman mythology there is the extra game of spotting various familiar figures in cameo appearances throughout the book, and identifying them before they are officially unmasked. The main character and his friends are a band of likable misfits that are easy to identify with, and there's a good amount of humor sprinkled throughout that a decent range of ages could appreciate. A good recommendation for HP fans as it features a magical element with a sense of history to it, a strong trio in Percy and the friends that accompany him on his quest, and the "camp" segment brings to mind the Hogwarts house dynamic....more

Think of Nightmare Academy as Hogwarts only here the good guys learn to banish monsters rather than fight evil wizards. Children with "the gift" go awThink of Nightmare Academy as Hogwarts only here the good guys learn to banish monsters rather than fight evil wizards. Children with "the gift" go away to a special school to be trained in their respective specialties. The hero begins his studies with a smart girl, and a slightly hotheaded and goofy yet loyal buddy by his side. The hero is both respected and feared at school but his new headmaster takes a liking to him and takes him under her wing. Beginning to sound familiar? Unfortunately, Lorey does not take nearly as much care with developing the characters of Charlie Benjamin and his friends as Rowling does. The headmaster in this book is no Dumbledore. Violet and Theodore are no Hermione and Ron. The potentially interesting characters that confront Charlie early in the book about his destiny are abandoned halfway into the book in favor of following the three kids. The "classes" at the school are likewise set up promisingly (one with a particularly interesting and amusing scene featuring the Trout of Truth) and then abandoned. This would seem to be a likely Potter read-alike but any true fan of the Harry Potter series will be disappointed to run across these semblances of similarity without the same quality to go with it....more

The fearless cabin boy Matt Cruse is back again, further in his schooling, although not a whit more financially solvent. Naturally, this is a sore subThe fearless cabin boy Matt Cruse is back again, further in his schooling, although not a whit more financially solvent. Naturally, this is a sore subject for him due to his continued friendship with the (independently wealthy) Kate DeVries, particularly when he finds out she is now often in the company of a hot shot captain-type. Kate's mind is occupied with other things: namely a particular scientific collection that is supposed to be on the legendary airship the Hyperion, said to be traversing the skies unmanned and uncatchable. Since this mystery ship is also rumored to be loaded with treasure, Matt sees the ship as the answer to his problems, particularly when he thinks he has a lead on where to find it, but Kate's friend wants the treasure just as much. Naturally, this reluctantly-teamed trio aren't the only ones looking for the ship and more pirate-esque high flying adventures unfold as they race to the scene. A gypsy girl with a suspiciously murky background story complicates the loaded friendship between Matt and Kate as well as the treasure mission. Is she a friend or a foe? What are her intentions? As for the sought-for ship, it holds plenty of surprises and twists of its own. If I recall, I gave the first in the set a very good rating as well, but the second might surpass it as far as the adventure factor is concerned. Also, a mysterious creature (of sorts) makes an appearance in this one as well, but somehow this one fits in a little better in this installment than the Cloud Cat does in the first. There's something very appealing about this world that Oppel dreamed up with its dirigibles and ornithopters, and the like filling the skies, and in this one we have not one, but two very strong female characters in the mix.

All in all, another solid read, although it'll be interesting to see if author will show as much skill spinning out the developing relationship between Matt and Kate as he does with the adventure aspect....more

If anyone had read this book from cover-to-cover, I hope that they will offer a comment, because I confess partial ignorance here. I had this book outIf anyone had read this book from cover-to-cover, I hope that they will offer a comment, because I confess partial ignorance here. I had this book out for a good three weeks and couldn't get beyond the first few chapters or so, I was so uninvested. I expect that it must get better once the cabinets themselves are really explored, but the tale of the discovery did not succeed conjure up much anticipation at all, and the main characters all felt rather flat...such a disappointment. I'm hoping some reader will give me a reason to give it another shot, because there's something about the premise that feels very old-school in a good sort of way, as if it might be a lost Edward Eager or E. Nesbit title. In those cases though, even though the core group of children in those stories often tended to be pigeonholed into set character types right away, those authors were always able to cobble together an instant likability for those characters nevertheless, while simultaneously establishing a suspenseful expectation of mysterious and magical things to come. Perhaps in a post-Harry Potter world, some would say there's almost an impossible burden of pressure on writers in a certain genre to manifest the fantastic to the right specifications. It has to be an exciting enough story that's complex without being unduly weighed down, main characters that are universally likable and relatable yet flawed and unique enough to be interesting, and of course the writer must demonstrate an appreciation and knowledgeability of all that has come before and be able to work these elements in to make the reader feel smart, and yet not borrow too much or be too derivative, and so forth. Still, I would say HP or not, this has really always been the mission, and authors can only just keep on trying. This author might want to try again--but if someone has an argument for this book, I'm ready to listen....more

The Amulet of Samarkand is of the better books I've read so far this year. Oddly enough, the most compelling character might just be the demon/djinniThe Amulet of Samarkand is of the better books I've read so far this year. Oddly enough, the most compelling character might just be the demon/djinni Bartimaeus rather than Nathaniel, the hotheaded young magician who summons him. Stroud likes to use footnotes as a conduit for humor. Sue Townsend and Jasper Fforde jump to mind as authors that make excellent use of this device, but it's something that can easily be overdone or come off as trying too hard. Stroud strikes just the right note, and somehow never lets this interrupt the flow of the suspenseful adventure that unfolds. ...more

This is a hodge-podge of background information on nearly everything sneaky, mysterious, confidential, or spooky. The selection of material ties intoThis is a hodge-podge of background information on nearly everything sneaky, mysterious, confidential, or spooky. The selection of material ties into some of the best parts of those handbook-type guides that are flying off the shelves right now. It's part secret agent training manual, part mythbusting how-to.

This being said, this book is not the sort of thing that you would encourage someone (particularly a younger kid, no matter how enthusiastic) to read in the traditional cover-to-cover, front-to-back sense. It's meant to be picked up and skipped through. The setup encourages this at every opportunity with cross-referencing tabs on the bottom of pages that prompt the kids backwards (or forwards) to other articles in the book on related subjects. The "secrets" within are so interesting though that one can see how a kid might start opening to random sections, and end up reading the whole thing. The diagrams and spreads inside are dynamic and eye-catching, and are almost more similar to what someone might see on the better kid-savvy websites out there than in a reference-type book, or even many of those same aforementioned handbooks that are so popular right now. These same spreads, which often force your eye to bounce all over the page are bound to annoy some adults, but are probably not going to perturb today's kids that have been accustomed to browsing the frenetic web almost since they left the cradle.

There are a few times where it appears that the "fun" aspect overrides the "practical" where readability/clarity of the text is sacrificed a bit for an interesting/cool graphic effect, and several of the foldouts (particularly the flimsy presidential heads in the section on the bizarre Kennedy-Lincoln connection) are bound to take a heavy beating in a public library or anywhere as young hands eagerly flip back the pages. Still, there was a lot to love here. ...more

This is one of those books that is a classic staple for a reason. Hamilton does an excellent job sorting out all the major gods' and goddesses' roles,This is one of those books that is a classic staple for a reason. Hamilton does an excellent job sorting out all the major gods' and goddesses' roles, personalities, and stories in a cohesive, entertaining way. Even as a longtime fan of Greek mythology I can admit that all the various familial connections, overlapping stories, and name changes can easily become confusing or tedious in the wrong hands, but Hamilton manages very well, and hits basically all of the really crucial myths that everyone should have a familiarity with (for cultural literacy purposes, and okay--because I say so) and the key points from the Aeneid, Odyssey, and Iliad. For this reason, not only would this book still be perfectly in place on a child's bookshelf, but it would be of service to adults as well who are looking for a refresher. For kids who are getting into the Percy Jackson and the Olympians books (The Lightning Thief, etc.) this is a great, painless source to refer to them to catch them up on just who all these characters are the books keep referring back to.

Although young people will undoubtedly skip right past these little asides, I personally found Hamilton's commentary and explanation about what translations she drew from pretty amusing...she is perpetually doling out backhanded compliments to Ovid for example as well as her other source, saying something to the effect of, "usually his accounts are dry and entirely without any artistic merit whatsoever, but I actually felt that he didn't ruin this one..." or "Ovid was wonderful, a master, etc. However--here I felt he was both mawkish and vulgar here so I went with so-and-so instead." Of course I'm pretty loose in my paraphrasing, but still...

Alexie tells a very compelling, funny, and moving story and his main character is about as close as you can get to the ultimate underdog. This is a kiAlexie tells a very compelling, funny, and moving story and his main character is about as close as you can get to the ultimate underdog. This is a kid who has been faced with one battle after another since his birth, surrounded by more than anyone's fair share of tragedy and injustice, but who keeps finding a way to get back on his feet and keep going nevertheless. A description like that might normally send up some red flags but you won't find a shred of pretentiousness or mawkishness here. There are plenty of valuable lessons you could pull out of this of course, but the book and its characters are simply and thoroughly entertaining and interesting. The voice is brutally honest, sometimes irreverent, and angry, or frustrated, but most of all real--and never preachy. That's what propels the entire thing, and what will keep kids connecting and enjoying this book for some time to come, reluctant readers and voracious readers equally. Ellen Forney's cartoon-style illustrations (the main character is an artist/cartoonist) aren't a bad touch either and perfectly fit with the mood of the book and the voice of the protagonist.

Needless to say, Alexie's novel has a lot to say about prejudice, but just as much to say about the importance of personal responsibility, and for this and many other reasons, it should be a must-read in schools. There are a smattering of incidental references to masturbation (I mean, we're dealing with a teenage boy here) which will unfortunately probably give some teachers pause, but I hope they give it another consideration. If they don't they would be doing a disservice as they'd be missing out on a huge opportunity to give kids access to some really important messages and thought-provoking issues while also introducing them to a book that might just make them enjoy reading. At the end of the day, these teachers can take comfort that they can always fall back on the fact that this book was (absolutely deservedly) a winner of the National Book Award. Boo ya. ...more

The second book gets a bit bogged down in Hatter Madigan's quest for his past and all of the build-up ends in two fairly predictable "twists". The othThe second book gets a bit bogged down in Hatter Madigan's quest for his past and all of the build-up ends in two fairly predictable "twists". The other villain that emerges is definitely loathsome in his own way, but never felt quite as vicious or dangerous as Redd herself in the first book. Redd must come down a bit too, however with so much attention divided between our new villain and the nostalgic Hatter.

Although I really enjoyed this,I wonder if it might be a book only a librarian could love. A luckless underdog discovers that what have always appeareAlthough I really enjoyed this,I wonder if it might be a book only a librarian could love. A luckless underdog discovers that what have always appeared to be his shortcomings (or at least outrageously bad luck) actually have a purpose and are linked to a secret identity/destiny. He discovers his roots and a new mission: to fight against the Evil Librarians and their conspiracy to conquer the world and control all knowledge.

As you might suspect, there are shades of Percy Jackson and Arthur Penhaligon in Alcatraz, but while both Percy and Arthur are very savvy in their own ways, the reader still feels like they could be real kids. Alcatraz mainly comes off as being too clever by half, and his voice never really rings true. This might be partly because the story is staged as if an older Alcatraz is recounting past adventures and that voice persists in intruding. Oddly enough, although it undermines the main character's credibility a bit it's that knowingness that's behind a lot of the book's best humor. The jibes at authors, and publishers, and yes...librarians, are all very entertaining, but would that appeal to the average kid? Although it's generally categorized as juvenile fiction, I would almost be more inclined to recommend it to teenaged reluctant readers who might appreciate the other layers as opposed to their younger counterparts who might just get annoyed at all the interruptions in the action.

Still, the gadgetry (all those Oculator lenses and the like) is bound to appeal to a lot of kids. Also, the pulp-y old school adventure quality of the action passages can probably be appreciated now more than ever with Indiana Jones back in the limelight again. ...more

I'll be honest...I threw it aside before I was even halfway in. Supposedly it's a very popular book, but the appeal eludes me. Maybe I've been ruinedI'll be honest...I threw it aside before I was even halfway in. Supposedly it's a very popular book, but the appeal eludes me. Maybe I've been ruined by Lara Croft and Indiana Jones and now I expect my archaeology to be served with a side of nazi chase scenes, human sacrifices, or booby-trapped idols. If any of that factors into Tunnels it must be pretty late into the game. It takes sooo long to get going, and the main character and his father seem very bland to me, and not particularly appealing. Only the sister seems to have any personality at all, and while she may factor into the plot more later on, unfortunately the narrative seems to be really centered on her brother and father's exploits. As far as the mysteries of underground tunnels are concerned, I think the Kiki Strike books are much more exciting. ...more

This book goes by the title Well Witched in the United States, which is too bad, because not only does it lack the beauty of the original, but it mighThis book goes by the title Well Witched in the United States, which is too bad, because not only does it lack the beauty of the original, but it might ultimately be confused with Franny Billingsley's book Well Wished, another book about an ominous turn of events at a wishing well. The Billingsley book is quite good, but this one is far superior. Anyone who read Fly-By-Night may not be surprised, but Hardinge is quickly moving to the top of my list of really top-notch children's authors right now.

In this particular book three friends in need of bus fare filch change from an abandoned wishing well. Almost immediately the three begin suffering bizarre and dramatic personal transformations(which will not be spoiled here) and discover that they are cursed to use their newly acquired abilities to grant the wishes associated with the stolen coins if they ever have a hope to reclaim "normal" lives. One will become drunk with his new power, and they will all be brought to the brink of death (more than once in some cases) during this quest. Adventure and suspense are high, and the pervading sense of eeriness and vulnerability were nearly enough to give me nightmares. The three main characters and even quite a few of the supporting characters are well-crafted and multidimensional. The Well Witch might almost be beamed straight out of The Ring, only that somehow, with Hardinge keeping the contact between her and the kids indirect through the majority of the book, her motivations seem even murkier and spookier.

Though this gets about as dark as it possibly can, most if not all readers should feel some satisfaction at how the various plot lines wrap up. Lest anyone think there's all gloom and doom, there are touches of humor here and there as well, particularly in the portraits of the holistic charlatan Mr. Punzell, and in the practical inconveniences of the characters well-acquired abilities. Equally boy-and girl-friendly and highly recommended....more